After reflecting on my travels these past couple of months I realized there are things I could leave behind and some things I really do need to make my wanderlust life easier.  I get asked all the time what my top must have’s are so here they are.  These six essentials are a must for myself and I think would be very much appreciated by you too.  If you are traveling for a 15 plus hours on a plane or even a two hour flight…these will be your babies every time you get on that transit.  *Note: Click the link to buy 🙂

The Weekender | Away

If you don’t already know, now you know.  The away bags are nothing like you’ve ever had before.  They are long lasting, durable, stylish and the CEO of the company is a total inspiring boss babe.  Once you’ve owned one of these, you will never go back.  I have had lots of experience with different travel bags and different brands and nothing compares to these.  Do yourself a favor and get you one.  You’ll love me forever. 😉

Silk Travel Set | Calpak

I definitely love a good neck pillow but they are hard to come by.  Im a huge fan of this travel set because it’s lightweight, silk and it’s easy on the hair and skin.  These neck pillows get pretty dirty traveling and being put on not so clean spaces but Calpak makes these easy to clean as well.  Let’s also mention that it’s Rose Gold which I’m a huge sucker for.  Because it’s silk, it will also feel semi cool on your skin.  Probably a bit pricier than usual but it’s totally worth it.

Comfy Kicks | Stanley Smiths

Wherever you may travel to you need some closed toed comfy sneakers.  You need a pair that will go with almost anything in your closet and everything that you will be packing.  My Stanley Smith’s are actually one of my all time favorite travel staples because they are comfortable AF, stylish and they can be dressed up or down.  You can wear them with jeans, shorts or even dresses.  Walk or run all day in them.  They are my favorites for 4 years now and probably for another 4 too. Pretty sure they be in style for years to come.

Packing Cubes 

Packing Cubes.  What a traveling life saver.  I literally could have not survived traveling for six months with my backpack without these things.  You can literally fill up one cube with a weeks wardrobe and more.  Every single person who travels at least once a year needs these.  They save space, helped you stay organized and they’re cute as hell.  Boys, there are also some for you on Amazon.  I got you. 😉 Anndddd the breathable mesh front lets you easily identify what’s inside.

Foam Roller Water Bottle | Mobot

I have no words for this water bottle.  We all know the importance of staying hydrated but also what’s better than staying hydrated and getting your muscles and body in tune for your next workout.  This baby does it all.  The reason why I love this so much is also because after a couple of hours traveling you want to stretch out and get your body back to normal.  What’s better than to have access to a foam roller at all times?! The smaller diameter is perfect to carry with you as it fits most backpack sleeves and gym equipment. It’s one of my all time favorite things at the moment.  Get yourself one.

Mini Steamer | Sunbeam

We all know that moment when you finally get to your destination and all your clothes are wrinkled and then you realize the Airbnb doesn’t have an iron or the hotel you’re at has one but then you have to get out the iron board, get a table for the iron, etc, etc. We don’t have time for that! 🙂 I love my Sunbeam mini steamer because it doesn’t take up much space in my luggage and it works so damn good.  You save time, energy and space.  If you don’t have one already please invest in one.  It’s the best $25 dollar purchase you’ll ever make.  You’re welcome.

Much love always, x

CP

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So it’s been a couple of weeks since my trip to Cartagena but I can’t stop looking at my photos because that place was so incredible.  Everywhere you turn, there’s a spot for that perfect picture.  The colors, the art, the people, the vibe, it’s just all so beautiful to capture.  Cartagena can be explored and experienced in two to three full days so I would consider that before booking here.  Take advantage of the beach resorts close by or the ever talked about Medellin.  Will definitely have to make it there soon!

WHERE TO STAY:

AirBnB-  There are adorable and super cute Airbnb’s in this town.  I did travel with 5 other girls so we lucked out on a space right in the middle of the city and a breathtaking view.   I would recommend getting an Airbnb where you can get around town easily by foot.

Hotels- Cartagena has some of the most amazing hotels I’ve ever seen.  It reminded me of Miami with a touch of Tulum.  I went inside so many hotels to check out the space and I couldn’t pick a main favorite.  Here below are some of my tops.

 Tcherassi Hotel & Spa

 Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena

 Casa San Agustin

WHERE TO EAT/DRINK:

Cuba 1940–  This place was so much fun.  Not only do they have live music playing but they also have a pool in the middle of the restaurant which gives it that cool little touch.  The decor is also on point and the staff is incredibly nice.  If you are a passionfruit lover/addict like myself, order the Passionfruit mojito.  It was deliciosooooo.

Cafe Del Mar–  You will read and hear people talk about this place non stop.  It’s incredible sea views and dope vibe is very popular among tourists.  You definitely want to try to make it here before dinner or at least give yourself some time to get a table and take it all in.  Hopefully you catch a sweet sunset like we did.   It was that moment here where I realized how fortunate and blessed I am to experience travel and moments like these.

Interno–  This restaurant can have a blog on itself because it was one of the coolest experiences I’ll always remember.  From the pink walls and palm decor, this Michelin-starred restaurant is making a difference.  Interno is in the women’s prison of Cartagena and the inmates are taught to cook by Colombian celebrity chefs.  The food was good, not amazing but definitely so glad I had the opportunity to experience this because it was eye opening.  We had the chance to speak to some of the women and they were so kind and open to speak with us about their experience and life situation.  This restaurant has helped dozens of inmates learn skills designed to aid reintegration into society.  I definitely recommend putting this on your to do list when here.  It’s something you won’t regret.

What to See and Do

Explore the Town | Definitely take one day to explore the whole entire city.  Make time to try some of the best coffee of your life.  Stop at the cute cafe’s in every corner and buy some to take some home with you.  Make sure to shop around. You’ll want to take everything back home! From beautiful homemade bags and shoes, to never ending turquoise and jewelry, unique home decor, and the list goes on.  This whole entire city is so vibrant and colorful and full of life.  I definitely got inspired for some future Yemaya designs.  Take pictures with the fruit ladies, dance on the street, take a carriage ride, try the amazing fruit sold on the street, stop in a cerveza shop for a beer break. Make sure to make your way to Getsemani. It’s one of the coolest little sections of the city and one of my favorite neighborhoods.  You’ll see the cutest shops, restaurants, hotels and street art all through out these streets.

Travel to Playa Blanca in Isla Baru | There are plenty of ways to get there but we decided to take a bus for the transportation which included food.  It is a crowded known beach but there are low key sections as well.  Just make sure to talk to your driver about that beforehand.  This beach does have white sand and crystal green waters so it’s definitely worth seeing.  Best tip I can give you is…. bring your own drinks and snacks because everything on the island is triple the price and there’s not much to pick from.  

Travel to the Pink Salt Sea | Must, must, must see this.  I told all the girls on the trip that I’m not leaving Cartagena until I see this pink sea with my own eyes.  It’s been on my bucket list for a while so when I showed the girls pics of this place they were quickly on board too.  Getting there is a bit difficult but we had the coolest driver that we met previously that ended up driving us the whole day to a couple of well known places for a great price.  Tip: If you find a good reliable driver, get his contact and keep him for the rest of your trip.   Salinas de Galerazamba is about 45 minutes outside of Cartagena in the middle of nowhere.  Ubers can also take you there but I would recommend making sure your driver stays with you and takes you back because you won’t find Ubers for your way back.  Literally the middle of nowhere.  There is something super magical about stepping into pink salt water.  Take your time to take pictures and take it all in.  

My trip to Cartagena was full of culture, laughs and beautiful scenery.  I’ve never been to such a charming beautiful place.  Being from South America, I did feel at home or maybe it was the lovely and kind people of Cartagena that made me feel this way.  All I know is that it’s a special place and definitely recommend for all the peoples to put it on their travel list.  So happy I got to experience this country and it’s beauty.  More pictures of the trip on IG @carlaloren

x, CP

 

 

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Self Love. Self Care.  I don’t know about you but I’m all about it.  I’m all about feeling good about myself especially during the hard times.   I wanted to give you some of the things I do that help me.  Endless quotes on Pinterest and Instagram, email #SelfCare blasts and top influencer self go to’s are all great but I wanted to put a list together that can possibly help you if you are stuck or just have to give yourself a lil more lovin. 😉

And yes getting together with your girlfriends, family and or loved ones are good ways to give you a lil boost but it’s important to know how to give yourself self care on your own.  Things you can do when you are all by yourself. Just you.  Its scientifically proven that women tend to seek outside comfort when they are going thru hard times such has hanging with girlfriends and or family.  I believe knowing how to self care by your lonesome is actually one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself.  Once you master that, you can love in all situations and people that come your way.

–  Take an essential oil bath (essential oils improve mood and set a positive atmosphere)

–  Journal or start a journal if you haven’t already (Journaling is a good way to set your goals, daily intentions, and live more in gratitude)

–  Do your favorite yoga/zen/meditation class (Anything that calms your body and mind will instantly make you feel better)

–  Look up quotes! I do this every morning + night and honestly it has helped me tremendously.  Find your favorite writers and authors.  Maybe it will work for you too. <3

–  Make your bed and clean your space and THEN light your favorite candle.

–  Listen to your favorite tunes, whether it’s calming or makes you wanna dance (Dancing never put anyone in a bad mood)

–  Smile to at least one person everyday (You’ll be amazed how awesome that makes you feel)

–  Give yourself a hair, face, and hand mask.

–  Talk to God or the Universe.  Talk out loud to whoever you want to speak to or believe in.

–  Put your phone on silent and go into nature. (Hike, walk, whatever it is get outside. Breath the fresh air.)

–  Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate.  As much as I’m thinking of some pink bubbly right now I’m talking about water with lemon. 🙂 (Detoxifies and cleanses)

– Just chill.  Put on your favorite comfies and watch your favorite show or movie.  (It’s ok to be lazy once in a while)

At the end of the day. Do you.  Do what makes YOU happy.  What’s going to put a smile on YOUR face.  This world is a crazy, silly, hard yet beautiful place.  Let’s learn how to care for ourselves so we can care for the rest.

x, CP

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You know that moment where you just want to quit because your body just hurts but then there is either an inner voice that tells you to keep going or you have that one motivator person telling you not to?!  For me I do need that person because I tend to think that when it hurts, it’s time to stop.  But it’s that time in your workout you need to try your hardest to keep going and that’s where change happens in the workout room and in life.  Here are my top five places that give me that little push I very much need.

I am currently now based out of Denver, Colorado and I have been trying out classes and gyms the last couple of months to truly figure out where I want to spend most of my days.  As many of you know, working out is something I love to do and is part of my everyday life.  Living in California for almost ten years, I was hooked on Equinox but that’s not available here in Denver.  YET! I hope.  So if you are ever in the Denver area and you want to get your sweat on these are my top places:

Pearl Street Fitness:  Currently hooked.  I’m usually not the biggest fan of small gyms with minimal space but this place makes it all worth it.  It’s not huge but there’s enough room to do the workouts they design perfectly.  I’ve done MANY gym classes and workouts through out my life but there is a special energy and dynamic here.  You feel like you are getting a personal training session but there is other people in the class.  You’ll instantly feel like you are getting a workout the first 5 minutes of starting class.  I don’t know about you but I love my workouts to be intense and know that I worked my ass off when it’s over.  This place does this for me.  I feel like dying through out the whole entire class but I see results happening and that’s what makes me love it so much.  Also, the trainers and people that go here are just straight up amazing people that have great energy.

F45 Training:  Not sure if you guys have heard of F45 but it’s starting to blow up all over the world.  You will sweat so much, definitely bring your own towel.  This place has the newest and greatest equipment for your workout.  Best best part of about F45 is their computer screens on the wall that show you your workout exercises and the time.  You know when you have that one trainer that makes 15 seconds last a million minutes?!  None of that here. 🙂  The trainers here are also very passionate about your safety and workout experience which makes you feel even more comfortable while you’re sweating your bum off.

Fitness In The City:  Circuit training at it’s finest here.  Great space, awesome equipment and good vibes all around.  If you like pretty big groups and working in two’s this place is for you.  The trainers are also so great at pushing you and making you complete your workout at your ultimate limit.  Since you are put in groups for each exercise and circuit you meet a lot of people here.  You leave this place with a good ole sweat and amigos.  Win/win.

Cyclebar: Get your hands up if you love to spin?!  I’m so picky about my spin classes that it’s really hard for me to stay consistent.  I believe the music needs to be on point, workout needs to be tough but it also needs to be fun all at the same time.  Cyclebar definitely will give you all three, you’ll want to go for more.  You get your cardio fix as well as an upper body workout during class.  They are opening up everywhere so make sure to make one close to your neighborhood!

In a city that is growing so fast and has endless places to workout, these are my top four.  I know I haven’t done all that is available here but I know these will be some of your top too.  So if you’re looking for a place to sweat you won’t be disappointed with these!  Get it X

 

 

 

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There is nothing like that feeling before heading out on our travels.  I learned a lot this past year while I was traveling for six months around the globe that I wish I knew before I left.  I constantly get asked various questions by followers and friends on what they should expect, what to bring, what are must have apps, etc.  So here they are:

♥ Contact your bank and phone provider letting them know you will be out traveling.  The last thing you want is any blocked transactions on your trip!

♥ I love who ever invented Sanitizer Wipes.  Honestly they are crucial for flying.  Yes I am that girl.  Have some handy on your carry on to wipe down your whole area.  Seats, windows, tray, monitors and please wipe down the head rest! 🙂 Planes are one of the most germ infested places you can be so put these on top of your list.

♥ Adaptors, adaptors, adaptors.  Even though most hotels have them, hostels and airbnb’s usually don’t.  You want to make sure you are all set when it comes to having fully charged electronics and appliances for your day/night out. 😉  I got mine on Amazon and couldn’t have been more happy with it.

♥ Make sure your passport doesn’t expire within the 6 months of travel.  Some countries will not let you fly if so.  I had a friend that couldn’t go on his travels that he planned with his buddies for months ahead of time because of this.

♥ Even though English is spoken in almost every country locals do appreciate it when travelers try to speak their native tongue.  Download the Google translation app or Duolingo for even a better experience.

♥ Make sure to take all your favorite products that you might not find overseas.  Shampoo, face wash, toothpaste, razors, medications/vitamins and your favorite snacks! (protein bars are my fav)

♥ Make a copy of your passport and driver license.  You never know when you will need to show your documentation so it’s better to have several copies with you then wasting time finding a printing/copy place in a city you don’t really know your way around.  This helped me a lot when our Airbnb and a bank overseas needed this info.

♥ When you finally know where you are staying take a couple of minutes to know where the closest hospital or urgent care is just in case of emergencies.

♥ My favorite thing to do is favorite/star all the places I want to visit in that country or city on my google maps app.  You can organize it by type of place so it’s easily accessible and with you at all times. I loved this for all the sights, restaurants, activities that were top on my must do’s.  Another reason why I love this is that you can send it to your fellow travelers and friends so they have them too!

♥ Wifi…not being connected for a while might seem amazing but we all know it’s crucial.  Make sure that your accommodation has wifi.  Even though most places do,  it’s very important to double check before hand.

♥ Make sure you know all the airline rules and regulations before you fly.  Weigh your bags before hand so if you are planning to purchase overseas you’ll be prepared when you come back.

Safe travels!

CP x

 

 

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When I arrived in Madrid in February of this year, I was pleasantly surprised how beautiful the city was.  We were only staying here for 5 days so I knew I had 5 full days of sight seeing, eating, and walking up my sleeve.  There is so much to see in this city I would recommend being there at least 5 days but more if possible.  I didn’t see everything I wanted to see but I saw enough that made me happy.   Here are a few things I did and recommend doing which you can add to your itinerary next time you are there. 🙂

Palacio Real

You definitely want to visit this place because it is breath taking.  I would recommend taking pictures from a far and also get up close because the details and use of gold in the building is so beautiful.  I could have stayed here all day just looking all around me.  I was wandering the streets on my own on this day and remember being so happy at the present moment.  The history surrounding all of Madrid is also so cool to experience.  You can walk through the palace solo or in a guided tour.

 

When you walk around you’ll be there for quite a bit because there is also the cathedral which is right in front of this building that you’ll want to observe and click away.  You can also go into the chapel and walk around.  It’s so beautiful and peaceful, I stayed in there for at least an hour.  Take it all in.  There’s history, art, architecture, faith and just overall good vibes.  I definitely recommend it all.

Plaza Mayor

Definitely a spot to check out when in Madrid.  It’s special because it’s the center of the city and there are great restaurants, coffee shops, shops and just an awesome place to sit down and people watch for hours.  It’s also a main meet up point for tours as well if you want to meet up with other people on the trip.

Prado Art Gallery

Don’t miss out on this one!  It honestly took my breath away.  Plan on being there for a while so make sure to give yourself enough time because this place is HUGE.  The older I get the more appreciative I am of art and history.  I could be there forever being inspired and looking back at what the world has been through to get where we are now.

Calle de Gran Via

One of my all time favorite main streets in a big city?!  GRAN VIA.  I might be bias because our amazing airbnb was straight stinkin middle of all this amazingness but it is an amazing area of Madrid.  You can’t compare New York City to Madrid but it does have the lights and happenings that NYC does at night time.  If you want a cool shot of this main strip, you have to go all the way to the top of the building.  I spent at least an hour here because I was distracted by all the amazing food, drinks and goodies that were being sold.  Expect to wait a couple of minutes to get your shot because I was there on a rainy day so I can only imagine how it is on a beautiful day.  Regardless, I was glad I made it to this spot before leaving.  And I’m sure you will like it too.

Retiro Park

You will see why this is Madrid’s most famous park.  This park was only reserved for royalty, but now it’s open to the public and thank goodness to that.  It was one of our last full days in Madrid and we wanted to spend it wisely and I’m so glad we did.  This park is honestly so breathtaking and relaxing.  You can take endless pictures inside and around the park, sit down and just see the park performers, spend a nice hour or so in the water on a boat, have a snack from one of the local stands and definitely finish off by checking out the glass palace.  Depending on what season you end up going the way the natural light hits the glass on the palace does make a difference of capturing that certain beauty.  But I have to say even on the rainy gloomy day we went, I was still moved by it’s beauty.  So don’t let that stop you.

Mercado San Miguel

Built in 1917, you can appreciate the building as well as the atmosphere inside and please COME HUNGRY.  Have cash on you and get ready to drink and eat the most delicious grub you’ll have in Spain for just a couple of euros.  From fried croquetas, to an array of different flavored and spiced olives, to cheeses, yogurt, sweet covered nuts, seafood, pastries galore and endless wine and beer.  I wish I could name off everything in this place but I just want you to imagine and experience this for yourself.  Oh yes and don’t forget the fresh cut fried potato chips!  (Damn, I just got hungry).  It’s become very touristy these past couple of years but don’t let that stop you.  It’s part of the vibe and it’s one of my favorite Spanish experiences.  Just take a look at the few things I tried when I was there.  Take me back! x

Madrid is so just so cool.  It has everything a city has to make a trip beautiful.  The beauty and history of the city shines through.  Escape yourself into everything the city has to offer.  There is so much to see and experience.  Take it all in because it’s one of the most beautiful cities you’ll visit.  I might be biased because Spain is my most favorite country in the world but I promise you’ll love it too. X

 

 

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Yes.  We have all heard that being out in nature is good for us but there are more reasons why the beach, specifically does more good than other serene places.  The beach and ocean have specific properties that help the human body feel relaxed and happier.

I have always loved the beach and the ocean, just like most of us but there was always something that made me feel physically and spiritually better after spending time seaside.  And this is why….

SEAWATER //  Seawater strengthens the body against many viruses, low defences, bacteria and pathogens.  Also, the sound of the crashing waves has a healing affect on the mind.  It’s a form of an unconscious meditation for me; which in my opinion, we all need some beach nowadays with the negativity of the news, hectic schedules, long working hours, and the pressures of everyday life.  If you can’t get to the beach, download a ocean waves app or ocean songs on Spotify.

SEA AIR // Sea air has healthy ions that builds our body’s capacity to take in more oxygen.  All the technology we use everyday such as our laptops, phones, microwaves, etc. expose us to unhealthy free radicals which erodes our body’s natural energy.  But when we are by the beach, the air helps us feel energized and relaxed at the same time.  I love to take deep breathes throughout the day but when I do it by the beach, it just has to much more spiritual healing for me.  Which leads to better mental health.

OCEAN COLOR // The color blue is considered a calming and peaceful color which helps us feel good.  Peaceful, calm and gentle, this color has great power to manage stress.  I will always love blue.

STRESS NO MO // There’s a reason why people go to the beach to mediate, or read a book or just lay down and not do anything. The sand is healing, the sound of the ocean waves is also healing.  It’s the perfect place to destress and help with depression.  True Fact:  The beach is the only place that I can go after a long, stressful, horrible day and then feel at peace and relaxed.  It’s honestly my favorite medicine.

NATURAL SALT SCRUB // Sand from the beach is my favorite exfoliant.  Did you know it removes dead skin and also has anti-aging properties.  Skip the spa and head to the beach! Thank me later with your soft skin 😉

 

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Rome, what can I say?  It’s Rome!  If you are someone that has been there already or haven’t, you have heard about this lovely city.  Every single time I go I always fall more in love with it.  Not only is there endless things to do and see, but it’s charming in every sense of the word.

I decided to make a trip to Rome again for the fourth time because my friend wanted to visit.  I’ll always say yes to Rome and especially Italy.  Right after I graduated from college, I decided to move to Florence for six months to learn the language and work a bit in the industry.  It was one of the most amazing and memorable times of my life.  Italy is so amazing.  It has incredible history, art, architecture, language and food, food and food!

 

Since I am traveling for a couple of months, I have to be more conscious on my spending so we found a great spot on AirBNB in one of the coolest neighborhoods in Rome called Pigneto.  It’s the new up and coming hipster cool area of Rome.  It’s a great location too with easy access to the metro and bus stops.  They have great bars, restaurants, coffee shops and markets you definitely want to check out when you go visit.

For the week that we were there we did a lot of ‘touristy’ musts but we also made sure to just relax some days and solely walk the streets with no specific purpose, get lost a bit, have some gelato in a hidden street and try an apertivo or two along the way.  I always find it important when I travel to just go out and explore.  Don’t have an agenda just walk the streets, you’ll be surprised what you stumble upon. I am a huge fitness bum so when I don’t have a gym around I have to walk as much as possible and do mini workouts in the bedroom.  If you are like me, Italy is your dream place because you will do so much walking that you will double and sometimes triple your steps for the day. 🙂 Which is always good so then I can have more pizza, pasta or gelato later!

I am a total foodie and love almost everything so I can find something to eat anywhere.  When it comes to Italy, you have to eat.  Italy has it’s own unique way of life with food.  Food to them is like water to us.  It’s everything to them and you can tell they put so much love into their food because it tastes oh so good.  Eat when you are here!  You will be wonderfully surprised. Here were a couple of stand outs for me but there is so much goodness in that city I’m sure you’ll have recommendations of your own.

Favorite Place for Pizza: Pizzeria Da Remo |  Best pizza I’ve ever had.  Handmade wood fired thin pizza crust, just the right amount of cheese with incredible flavor.  Make sure to get their right when they open or close to it or plan on waiting.  Order your pizza of your liking with a glass of red.  Bravissimo in your mouth!

Favorite Vegan Spot: Flower Burger | Best vegan burger I’ve had in a long time.  I’m not a huge meat eater and eat fish occasionally but vegan spots are always my go to when it’s available.  I went here on my own and honestly was in heaven.  I had been craving a healthy burger and who knew I had come to the right place.  Their buns are also super tasty and they come in colors so they make for a great pic. My mouth still waters a little when I think about this place and my burger below. 🙂

 

Italy is well known for their food and apertivo stops so make sure to try as much as you can because there is nothing like Italian apertivo and food.  Just keep in mind lunch stops do close around 2 or 3 and then reopen after apertivo around 6 or 7.  Apertivo usually starts around 4 too.  See what I mean when I say Italy and food? 🙂

Favorite spot for for a Cappucciono or Apertivo: Santa Maria Bistrot | This place is gorgeous!  Not only do they have the cutest decor but their food is suppose to be great.  We only stopped in for a cappuccino but it was buenissimo to say the least!  Strike a convo with some of the ladies at the bar, they were incredibly friendly and gave us some recos too.

Favorite Spot for Fried Artichoke: Il Portico |  Do not leave Rome without trying fried artichoke, or as the Romans say it, Carciofo alla giudia.  It is honestly one of the most delicious things I have ever tasted.  Before we left Rome we wanted to visit the Jewish Quarter or Jewish Ghetto as they call it because we heard such great things about it. So on our last day we set out on a rainy day to find the best fried artichoke.  Apparently there are many places that do this best but we stopped here and were very satisfied.  The crunchiness and tastiness is all you need to leave with a smile on your face.  The Jewish Ghetto is a place to definitely put on your Rome list.  There are cute restaurants and shops everywhere and great history too.  You will find some of the best restaurants in this side of the city so come hungry.

Things to See in Rome

The Vatican/Sistine Chapel:  It’s a must.  You will be mind-blown.  It’s worth it.  Do it.

 

Trevi Fountain: It’s a beautiful spot for a pic.  Try to go early morning if possible because it’s gets incredibly crowded.

Pantheon:  It’s a Rome signature and so beautiful.  Take pictures from the outside and inside.  There are beautiful and yummy places to get something to eat and drink as well in front of it.  Enjoy. 🙂

 

Colloseum:  Nothing more breath taking than this place.  It was my second time there and the feelings were exactly the same than when I went there the first time.  I would recommend to go there during the day and at night because there are just no words.  Take your time walking around and even inside.  Take pictures and make your memories here.

Spanish Steps:  I love this spot.  It’s in one of the most beautiful areas of Rome with luxury surrounding the steps.  Great coffee and gelato shops, beautiful restaurants, designer shops, cutest of all European streets and talented performers.  Writing this makes me want to be there now!

St. Peters Basilica:  Catholic or not, we will appreciate this place like no other for it’s architecture and art.  You have, have, have to go and see this place.  The first time I saw this with my real eyes it was 11 years ago and till this day I have never seen anything like it.  You most definitely have to make this visit when in Rome.

Ponte Sant’Angelo: This bridge is the most beautiful bridge in the world. Its openness to light, and perfect distance between arches and water surface makes it different… not to mention the beautiful materials it is made of, and the history it has. Last but not least, it is the bridge that connects the Eternal City to Saint Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.  If you are lucky, you will hear one of the best instrument playing by the most talented people on that bridge.

If you have enough time, go to Perugia for the day.  We did this and we were so stoked we did.  If you want to be up in the countryside with beautiful views, in a cute little town and chocolate shops everywhere then Perugia is your go to.  Perugia is surrounded by defensive walls with gothic inspired streets and architecture.  Expect to see some amazing churches, structures and museums while you are here.  Plan to eat and make sure to try their chocolate they are famous for.

This list are just starters and ideas for your days in Rome but there are endless things to see, do and eat here.  So much history, art, food, and architecture to take in and explore.  Italy is really easy to travel to and from with great transportation and every place you manage to travel to is picturesque.  If it’s your first trip here or your 10th, you will always love it.  It’s that special.

 

 

 

 

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As some of you know, I am currently living out of a plane on a travel tour with one of my best friends.  We have no set itinerary, no set schedule but we are still working remotely.  It’s been a month and some since we left home and just now starting on my Malta post.  Working remotely is not as easy as it looks especially when you are an early riser and have an intense wanderlust soul and want to spend your hours wandering around with no plan in sight.  But it has to be done. 🙂

To tell you the truth I’ve always wanted to visit Malta but it wasn’t a top one on my list until recently.  I started to read and see more about it.  Top bloggers started posting about it, Conde Nast named it top travel destinations for the year 2018, etc.  And plus it’s a historic island with crystal blue waters!  Hello! Yes please.

Visiting Malta in the winter is their off season but we couldn’t have asked for better prices, weather, locals, and actually some seats on our bus travels.  Here are photos of our first day on the Island.  Our AirBnb in Sliema was steps away from the ocean so we couldn’t have been happier.  There was also a coastline of all restaurants, bars, shops, and more.  Once you walk to the coastline you see a beautiful cityscape of beautiful Valletta, Malta.


If you are visiting or staying in Sliema, I would recommend to take a full day to walk the hidden nooks of this town.  You will get inspired and take in all the hidden beauty that is tucked in between the streets.  Have a coffee at a local shop, try their spinach and tuna pie on the go, and just enjoy those snacks and sit on a random step in the middle of it all.   It’s a lovely vibe.  You’ll like it.  We did all those things and then we stumbled upon the cutest lunch place in front of the water to have a glass of wine.

We knew we wanted to see most of what the island had to offer so we planned on taking the bus to different towns that we heard so much about.  We didn’t even make it to some of them!  We spent a couple of hours in Mosta and then saw a tiny town on the water that day as well.  It was a nice town but there’s not much to do except see the church and grab something to eat.  I would recommend skipping that town and heading to Mdina or Popeye’s Village instead.

One of the most memorable and magical places I’ve ever seen is a little town called Mdina.  If you are a Game of Thrones fanatic (who isn’t) you will recognize and fall even deeper in love with this place.  The land of ‘Kings Landing’ is shot in all of Malta but it was mostly shot in Mdina.  With the cobblestone narrow streets, to the medieval architecture and restaurants, to the horses riding along the town, you will be waiting to transform into Kaleesi right then and there!  As some of you already know, I truly get inspired by my travels and this place got me to the bones.  I was inspired, mesmerized and truly blessed to be able to walk these magical streets and take in all the beauty.  A friend of mine actually took us thru Mdina at night and I have no words.  I thought I was in a medieval dream.   Mdina is definitely a must see if you visit Malta, you will too be mesmerized.

Favorite place to get a drink: Tiffany Champagne and Wine Bar in St. Julians

Favorite place for dinner (Get the cheese plate and a glass/bottle of wine) : Bridge Bar in Valletta

Valletta is a great place to see during the day and a must at night.  There are several restaurants, bars and stores to check out.  You can take the ferry or the bus to this beautiful city.  Since we were all over the island checking out other places we only had the chance to be in Valletta at night.  Thankfully, it turned out to be a night to remember.  I recommend to walk the streets as much as you can and go to bridge bar.  On a calm night, order the cheese and meat plate recommended by the owner with a glass of your favorite wine.  I always do rose :).  On a busy night, go there and sit on the steps while you drink your favorite beverage while listening to music that is played outside.  It’s really the coolest most amazing little gem and the owner, George is the sweetest most generous human.  Start a conversation with him, maybe he’ll even toast some limoncello with you!

I get asked all the time what beach is my favorite?  I’m a beach nut so it’s hard for me to answer that question because any place with the sea and sand is beautiful in my eyes.  But Rambla Bay in Gozo was an absolute stunner.  I’ve never seen anything like it!  Crystal blue waters, orange sanded beach that is sandwiched between countryside and mountain tops you won’t know where you are.  It is one of the most captivating areas of Malta, surrounded by natural beauty you will be.  The natural colors of the surroundings of this place was very inspiring for me.  The colors in the bay and colors surrounding it all made it a wonderland.  The mis of the green and blues of the ocean with the orange and golds from the sand to the greens and browns of the cliffs and countryside..(I can go on and on).  Put this on the top half of your list for sure.

Finally I get to talk about the Blue Grotto in Malta.  One of the most beautiful coolest experiences I have done in a long time.  The ride there is spectacular going up the mountains tops, along the Dingli Cliffs and looking down at the water.  Make sure to give yourself enough time to see everything on the way as well as making it to the boat ride.  It’s about 8 euros for the ride and it’s definitely worth it.  They take you inside the caves and you get to see the beautiful rock formations from afar and close up.  The water is so crystal clear blue you’ll be tempted to dive in so bring a suit!   These six marine caves are so breath taking you’ll have this memory forever.

We did a lot in a week and we could have definitely stayed longer.  We felt right at home and loved every bit of this island.  The food was great, the people were incredibly nice and the history just took our breath away.  Malta is definitely one top of my list of favorite places and I want it to be on yours too.  This country gave me some great memories and for that I am loving it for life.

 

 

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